LELAND, Mississippi — Following a mass shooting that occurred during a community homecoming event in Leland, local authorities are actively seeking public assistance to identify suspects linked to this tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of six individuals.
The shooting took place last Friday night, just after a high school football game, as residents gathered in the streets for a traditionally joyful celebration. Instead, the night turned horrific, resulting in numerous injuries, with over a dozen people wounded alongside the fatalities.
Mayor John Lee expressed the community's shock, stating, It’s still kind of numbness at this point. Families are still grieving, and they don’t have closure right now. We’re talking about funerals not even prepared yet.”
Investigation updates will be provided in a news conference set for Thursday at City Hall, featuring local police and officials from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the FBI.
The situation has left many in the town unsettled. Witnesses at the scene described the aftermath as horrifying, recounting visions of chaos and devastation. Camish Hopkins, a witness, stated, It was the most horrific scene I’d ever seen,” as he remembered seeing multiple individuals on the ground.
Although several suspects have already been charged with capital murder, law enforcement continues to gather information. Meanwhile, the FBI has shared images of individuals who are wanted for questioning.
As investigations proceed, local leaders emphasize their commitment to uncovering the motives behind this violent act, which appears to have stemmed from a disagreement among multiple parties.